Gennady RaishevGennady Raishev is the son of a Khanty hunter. In 1954 he began his studies at Hertzen University in St. Petersburg (then Leningrad), specializing in Russian literature. After his second year, he began classes at the evening art school as well, ultimtely graduating with a dual degree. It was not until the 1990s that his gift as an artist received national recognition with many solo shows. His permanent studio in Khanty-Mansiisk now serves as a memorial museum and is open to the public. Raishev's style is unique, expressive, and readily recognizable, as his illustrations of Aipin's tales demonstrate. He is influenced by Khanty legends and mythology. Raishev employs black-and-white techniques mainly in printmaking, but works in oil and watercolor as well. Art must be mysterious, Raishev says. The Khanty love flat surfaces and the freedom to fantasize. Read More Read Less